If you have an above-ground pool, it may not be possible to fully heat your swimming pool in cold temperatures without an electric heater. However, these heaters are restricted in California, so it’s important to check your state and local regulations before installing one of these units in your pool area. Luckily, there are some exceptions that allow electric resistance heaters to be installed in pools, like the ones listed below.
Exceptions to pool heater requirements
There are a couple of exceptions that allow for electrically heated pools. Listed package units with fully insulated enclosures (such as a hot tub) are exempt, and so pool with no more than 1 inch of water depth at any given time.
When you can install an electric heater without a permit
An elvärme pool is allowed to be installed without a permit, but electrically heated air handlers (AHU)s and domestic water heating that utilize electricity are not. Make sure to properly protect your electrical equipment with ground fault circuit interruption protection devices. You must have enough venting space so that no flammable gases can come into contact with the electrically heated items. Use only a UL-listed swimming pool heater that is approved for outdoor use; avoid heaters with exposed heating elements because they can overheat. For example, Blue Wave has electric resistance pools certified for outdoor use, and they are specifically made to prevent overheating while giving you the comfort of an indoor-like experience on those chilly nights.
The cost of installing or replacing your existing pool heater
Pool heating systems are usually calculated based on the square footage of your pool. The average cost to install or replace a pool heater is $1,000-$2,500. Costs can vary depending on the type of pool you have and what kind of heater you purchase. For example, if your pool is heated by natural gas you will save money by installing a natural gas hot water heater instead of going electric.
Do I need permission from my HOA?
You’ll need permission from your HOA if you’re installing a pool with a heat pump. Pool owners are restricted to having electric resistance heaters, but there are exceptions. However, if you’re installing a pool with a heat pump, then electric resistance heating is not permitted and you’ll have to ask the Board of Directors for permission to use natural gas or propane as fuel.
What about energy efficiency and emissions?
In order to be sustainable, electric resistance heaters also need a pump or blower system that draws air from the bottom and blows it up to the top of the water. This causes cooling for the environment below but can put a strain on other components when being run constantly. The trade-off between energy efficiency and emissions will vary by person. But before you commit to electric heating there are some steps you should take, such as investing in pool accessories to maximize your enjoyment of your installation.
Can I use any type of cover?
A cover can be installed on a pool, but the type of cover that is used will depend on the climate. When installing a cover over a pool with electric resistance heat, you must use a fully insulated, listed package unit such as those used for hot tubs. The insulation will help keep the water warmer and reduce energy costs. Installing a billig pool cover is not recommended because they don’t insulate well and can actually increase energy costs by warming up the water so much that it doesn’t heat evenly.
